Romanian-American University – 35 years of education, innovation, and international partnerships
The Romanian-American University, a private, non-profit higher education institution of public interest, celebrates this year 35 years since its establishment. This milestone symbolizes, in terms of tradition, the formation and consolidation of values passed on to generations of students and professors, serving as a benchmark for private higher education in Romania. It has been built around international openness, entrepreneurial spirit, strong connections with the business and organizational environment, and the training of professionals with skills relevant to the global labor market.
Founded in 1991 by Ion Smedescu, Ph.D. Professor, at a time of profound transformation in the Romanian educational system, the University has distinguished itself over time by promoting a modern educational model inspired by the values of the American academic system, grounded in rich Romanian traditions and adapted to the demands of the contemporary economic and social environment. Over more than three decades of activity, we have proudly and dedicatedly trained over 50,000 graduates who are now active in companies, national and international organizations, as well as public institutions in Romania and abroad.
In this anniversary frame Costel Negricea, Ph.D. Habil. Professor – Rector of the Romanian-American University stated: “Tradition means knowledge, but it can also mean patience, constant effort, and understanding. The Romanian-American University, now at this anniversary milestone, has shown through its continuous activity of providing education that it has found its place within the stream of tradition. As for myself, in my role as Rector, I have been entrusted with accepting a legacy. It is not easy to accept a legacy, but it is important to understand it, preserve it, and pass it on. Now, in 2026, the legacy is embedded in tradition, and both are reflected in the graduates of our university, in the joy and peace of mind of the parents who trusted us, and in the academic staff – members of the Romanian-American University family.”
Through our study programs, research initiatives, and numerous international partnerships, we have built a dynamic academic environment focused on performance and global openness. Our university community consists of faculty members, researchers, students, and alumni who share common values such as academic excellence, responsibility, and entrepreneurial spirit.
Over time, we have developed a complex academic portfolio, which currently includes 8 schools: the School of International Business, the School of Law, the School of Physical Education, Sport and Kinesiotherapy, the School of Finance and Accounting, the School of Computer Science for Business Management, the School of Management-Marketing, the School of Psychology and Educational Sciences, and the School of Tourism and Hospitality Management.
This year, accreditation and launch procedures will be finalized for new study programs within two new schools: the School of Medical Sciences (School of General Nursing, Bachelor program taught in Romanian) and the School of Architecture (integrated Bachelor and Master program taught in English).
At present, we offer over 35 study programs and an international educational environment comprising students from more than 50 countries, experienced faculty from Romania and abroad, and a vibrant multicultural academic community dedicated to education and research. Our university campus provides the opportunity for a complete educational experience through modern facilities, dedicated research centers, and technologies that foster innovation through education.
A distinctive element is facilitating access to education through financial support: 20% of students enrolled annually in Romanian-taught bachelor programs and 10% in Romanian-taught master programs benefit, based on performance, from tuition-free places. To date, we have invested over €2 million from our own resources to support high academic performance among young people, awarding more than 6,200 performance scholarships (with a perfect GPA of 10), study scholarships (tuition-free places), and social scholarships.
We strengthen our international dimension through a diversified portfolio of programs and initiatives dedicated to students interested in academic mobility and intercultural competencies. We host study centers dedicated to Asian and Latin American languages and cultures, offering opportunities to deepen knowledge in increasingly relevant global regions. At the same time, through active participation in the Erasmus+ program and bilateral academic exchange programs, our students benefit from academic mobility and international internships, contributing to an educational experience connected to the European and international space.
“What has been, from the very beginning, a core objective – the consistency in shaping and specifically preparing our students – is reflected in the way our study programs are designed. As a result, 77% of our graduates find employment in their field of study or related fields. We consider what is happening now to be a real opportunity; the future will simply be the result of today’s work. And to preserve the thread of tradition and legacy mentioned by the Founding Rector of the Romanian-American University, our priority is to provide consistent education and ensure a broad framework of procedural competencies, and, as in a family, to jointly identify an environment where these competencies can be valued.”, added Rector Costel Negricea, Ph.D. Habil. Professor.
Looking ahead, we aim to continue strengthening our academic programs, expanding international collaborations, and developing innovative educational initiatives designed to prepare new generations for the challenges of an ever-changing global economy.
Anniversary Calendar: events dedicated to the academic community and the socio-economic environment
The 35th anniversary of the University is marked by a series of events taking place throughout the year, bringing the academic community — students, professors, alumni, and partners — into the spotlight.
University’s Days (April 16–18, 2026)
- April 16 – Anniversary Ceremony. The event brings together representatives of the academic community, students, alumni, diplomats, and business partners.
- April 17 – Education Festival. An event dedicated to high school and university students, featuring interactive workshops, thematic stands (schools, international programs, students’ clubs), competitions, campus activities, and artistic moments.
- April 18 – Sports Activities. Sports events organized at the RAU sports’ base, dedicated to high school students, university students, and professors.
Other Anniversary Highlights in 2026
- May 8 – Alumni Reunion marking 10, 20, and 30 years since graduation
- October 8 – Excellence Gala dedicated to alumni and institutional partners
- Launch of the volume “35 Successful Alumni at 35 Years of Academic Excellence”
